Environmental Geology

by Edward A. Keller

This book offers one of the most comprehensive, up-to-date treatments of environmental geology available?from fundamental geologic principles to the specifics of environmental law and geological hazards. It fully discusses both processes and environmental issues, and where appropriate, includes boxes with quantification of processes. Case Histories and examples reflect a cross-section of the United States, and Special Features boxes highlight "classic" and recent environmental disasters. Features high-quality photographs and illustrations throughout. Earth Materials and Processes. Soils and Environment. Natural Hazards: An Overview. Rivers and Flooding. Landslides and Related Phenomena. Earthquakes and Related Phenomena. Volcanic Activity. Coastal Hazards. Water: Process, Supply, and Use. Water Pollution and Treatment. Waste Management. The Geologic Aspects of Environmental Health. Mineral Resources and Environment. Energy and Environment. Global Change and Earth System Science. Air Pollution. Landscape Evaluation and Land Use. For geologists, environmental scientists, and foresters.

Genres: Geology, Science, Textbooks, Environment

562 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1979

Reviews

[Lillian Elliott · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was the textbook for a Environmental Geology class I took and I actually read it cover to cover because it was so interesting. I thought the class, which seemed to be designed around the book as all the lectures went off of chapters from the book, was very interesting and Environmental Geology was an excellent textbook. I learned a lot from reading it and it sparked my interest in environmental science. I love that this field, and this book, discuss not only the physical aspects of geology, but the cultural and social implications of geographic features. For example, it discussed Easter Island and the misuse of resources there that caused the civilization to resort to cannibalism. I also learned that there is evidence that Ancient Rome's fall may have been related to lead poisoning (they used lead in many of their everyday items and the upper class had water flowing through lead pipes into their homes). I love how Edward A. Keller connected geology to history and social issues. He also writes about how to keep yourself out of harm's way with regards to natural hazards, discussing the proper ways to react to natural disasters as well as how to escape from a rip current.

I enjoyed this book and learned a lot from it. Although it is long, as textbooks usually are, I found all the information relevant and the writing interesting. I think it is important to learn about environmental issues, particularly climate change, because we need to learn about the Earth in order to take better care of it. I think this was an excellent textbook and recommend it for anyone interested in an in depth exploration of environmental geology.